Construction underway for library computer classroom

It has been exactly six months since the Flood of 2013, and economic recovery remains a prime focus in the area. To create a space for the learning needs of those in job transition and those revitalizing their businesses, a major grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Colorado (CFNC) is making possible both the construction and equipment for a computer training room inside the Estes Valley Library. In 2014, prioritized use of the space will be for the needs of job seekers and small business owners, supplemented by related workshops that directly support the economic well-being of local residents. In addition to the 13-seat computer lab, two small meeting spaces (seating up to 3 people each) are being assembled to allow related space for one-on-one counseling and consulting with agency specialists. Construction of the spaces is made possible by private donations supplementing the CFNC grant.

With the spaces set to open in April, construction work began last Monday on the library's second floor, with major work slated to continue through next week. A second work phase will include the installation of computer equipment and furniture.

Library visitors may anticipate some construction noise in the building during the coming week (primarily on the second floor, but occasionally on the first floor as well). All services, including wi-fi access, Computer Commons access, and meeting rooms, are remaining active during this month's construction. Spaces for tables and study carrels on the second level have become more limited, but library staff are assisting customers in locating work spaces during this temporary phase.

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When the work is complete, library visitors will enjoy an improved design that offers even more public computers than before. And classroom attendees will benefit from the expertise and specialty services of the Larimer County Workforce Center (LCWC) and the Larimer Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Dates, times and topics for workshops in the new space are being set. Among the first workshops planned are guided overviews of the website ConnectingColorado.com, which offers a primary platform for both jobseekers as well as business owners seeking to fill positions. The sessions are ideally timed this spring as the LCWC helps with employment placement in advance of the local economy's summer peak season.

The addition of this classroom also makes possible, beginning in early 2015, public computer and electronic services training led by library staff. Library staff are focusing this year on improving their technology skills with the objective of being able to fully assist in the community's computer literacy needs.

The Library plans weekly updates this month on the progress of the classroom construction and announcements of workshops as they are confirmed. For more information, contact the library at (970) 586-8116 or visit estesvalleylibrary.org

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